Steering Committee and Open Planning Meetings

Format and Robert's Rules of Order

At the beginning of each year the Chairperson will set the schedule of meetings.

Each month there is an Open Planning meeting. During the first few months of the year there is a Steering Committee Meeting (SCM) every other month. During the few months prior to the convention there usually is a SCM every month.

The Steering Committee Chairperson runs all meetings. If the Chairperson is not available then the Co-Chair will run the meeting in his or her absence.

Bellow is a recent Sample Meeting Schedule:

The Open Planning Meetings are less formal than the Steering Committee Meetings. All Volunteers are considered members of the Convention Committee. They should all be encouraged to attend the Open Planning Meetings.

The Steering Committee meetings are for Steering Committee members only and where actual policy is discussed. These meetings follow “Robert’s Rules of Order” when at all possible as follows:

Robert’s Rules of Order

(Paraphrased)

The Meaning of Motion

The primary purpose of the sort of meeting that uses rules of order is for the group to make decisions. A motion is a formal proposal by a member, in a meeting, that the group take certain actions. Strictly speaking, there should be no debate on a matter before a motion regarding it has been made.

How to Make a Motion

“I move that…” and then clearly describe the proposal. Wait until later to explain why the motion is a good idea.

“Seconding” a Motion

When one member has made a main motion, it must be seconded in order to be considered by the group. This shows that at least two members want the proposal considered.

The Chair “States” The Question

When a motion has been moved and seconded, the chair then states the question on the motion. To state a motion, the chair simply says, “It is moved and seconded that…” and then repeats the exact words in which the motion was made. Before stating a motion, the chair must determine if a motion is in order, if not the chair the must state, “The Chair rules that the motion is not in order because…” The Chair must ensure that the motion is clearly phrased. If not, the Chair should help the Mover to reword it before stating the motion.

Debate on the Motion

Once a motion is stated, it is said to be “on the floor.” The chair normally turns to the maker of the motion to see if he or she wishes to be assigned the floor. Secondary motions to amend the main motion may be made at this time.

The Chair “Puts” the Question

When no one else seeks recognition to debate the chair may ask, “Are you ready for the question? (or is there any further debate?)” If no further debate, the puts the question to a vote, “The question is on the adoption of the motion that…” Motions may require a majority vote, 2/3 majority vote or other. Chair should specify the vote required to pass the motion before asking for the vote. The Chair announces the result of the vote.